“My experience at Ways & Means has brought back my confidence with work that I’ve previously lost which is going to help me in the future with other employment, most importantly I have achieved my goal of wanting to have a stable job which I thought I’d never be able to achieve with how chaotic my life used to be. I couldn’t be happier working at Ways & Means” – Edward

Ways and means is a social enterprise powered by Victoria’s Youth Support + Advocacy Service (YSAS). We first opened our doors in 2014 and have since brewed our way into the hearts of Melbourne’s CBD workers.

we’re a boutique café where you’ll find tasty coffee, wholesome meals and irresistible treats. All produce is locally sourced and the best quality we can get our hands on.

we’re also a YSAs program, offering vulnerable young people the opportunity to work in a café-setting to develop new skills and a sense of belonging.

Over the last two years, we’ve created a supportive pathway for young people interested in gaining work experience and building their confidence. So far, over 90 young people – some facing significant disadvantage – have come through our doors to grow, learn and eventually head back out into paid employment or study.

Our community makes this work possible. all the regular coffee drinkers and catering orders teach young people valuable skills and keep the café going.

when you’re next in the cbd – come on down, we’d love to meet you!

Want to know more about the program? Read this interview with café manager Kate